Graham Brooks / STAFF WRITER

I’m a believer in the saying “good things come to those who wait.” Evidence of this saying was on display when I visited the Coal Yard Bar and Grill for their soft opening in Old Town Helena last week.

It has taken more than two years for the Coal Yard to reach its opening date last week and the time and effort put into making the restaurant a one-of-a-kind venue is evident.

Some Helena residents wondered why it was taking so long to open the restaurant but co-owners Jeff Oetting and Tim Robinson didn’t want this to be any bar and grill, they wanted it to be a restaurant that paid tribute to Helena’s roots.

After seeing the detail of the work and interviewing the owners in person, I can see that this is a restaurant and project they were passionate about and they wanted it to mean something to the town and people of Helena.

The name and theme of the restaurant is based off the fact that Helena used to be a coal town. When first walking in the restaurant, there is an old, original coal car that was used in Helena and is a centerpiece to the restaurant.

The owners paid close attention to other details including the bar, tables, private rooms, balconies and more to give the restaurant a unique rustic look.

The other neat aspect of Coal Yard is the food. I personally tried the seafood tacos and they were outstanding. Robinson described the food as upscale casual and there is sure to be an item on the menu suitable for everyone.

Sometimes in this day and age we feel like we need to rush things and that faster is always better. While that may be true in some cases, I don’t think this applies to the Coal Yard.

After spending a few hours there interviewing, looking around, talking to customers and trying the food I think it will be a neat highlight for anyone passing through Old Town Helena in Shelby County.